Whether you are preparing for your IELTS test, or want to know more about what’s in the Writing section of the exam, you can find everything you need to know here.
The Writing test format is the same for both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, but the question content is slightly different.
For both test types, you are given 60 minutes in total to complete the Writing section of the exam, with two tasks to finish in that time. It is recommended that 20 minutes is spent on Writing task 1, then the final 40 minutes on Writing task 2.
Writing Task 1 is slightly different depending on whether you are taking the IELTS Academic or General Training test, but Writing Task 2 is the same format for both tests.
Writing Task 1: IELTS Academic
For task 1 of the IELTS Academic Writing test, you will be shown an image such as a chart, graph or map. You will then be asked a question relating to the image and expected to write around 150 words summarising what you see.
Find out moreWriting Task 1: IELTS General Training
If you are taking the IELTS General Training test, Task 1 in the Writing section asks you to write a letter in response to a situation presented to you in your exam paper. These situations could be formal, semi-formal or informal and include things such as a letter to your manager or to a friend or family member. You should aim to write around 150 words.
Find out moreWriting Task 2: IELTS Academic & General Training
Whether you are taking the IELTS Academic or General Training test, the second part of the exam, “Writing task 2” is the same format. During this part of the test, you will be asked to write an informal essay of at least 250 words on a topic provided in your exam paper.
Find out moreFree practice tests
You can find free IELTS Writing practice tests here to help you prepare for the types of questions you might be asked in your exam.
Free practice testsIELTS webinars
We have webinars which are led by language experts and are specific to the Writing part of the exam. They can cover everything from how to tackle specific tasks to how to increase your band score.
Upcoming webinarsTest taker support
See our full range of preparation support for test takers here. From full courses to study packs and online coaches, we have plenty of free resources to help you do well in your IELTS test.
Prepare for IELTSHow much preparation should I do?
The more time you give yourself to prepare, and the more you take advantage of our free materials, the better you are likely to score in your IELTS test.
Familiarising yourself with the Writing section of the exam means no time wasted on the day, giving you more time to focus on your questions. You’ll also have a better understanding of what the examiners are looking for in order to get the best mark possible.
IELTS Writing test advice
In the Writing test, you can use a pen or pencil. You can choose to write in capitals or lower case.
You can make notes on the question paper, but anything on the question paper will not be marked. Make sure all your answers are on the answer paper.
Writing test tips:
With over 80 test centres located across Canada, simply use our online tool to find one near you and book online today.
Find your nearest test centre here by following the link and selecting the province you live in.
Test & practice tips for IELTS Reading
Learn moreTest & practice tips for IELTS Listening
Learn moreTest & practice tips for IELTS Speaking
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
How can I improve my IELTS writing?
How do I do IELTS Writing task 2?
How do I write the opinion essay in IELTS / How do I write the agree/disagree essay?
How do I prepare for IELTS writing?
What happens if you write less than 250 words in the IELTS writing task?
